New complexes launched in Russian ports in 2008 to raise cargo handling by 56 mln t - Ivanov

Introduction of new complexes in the ports of the Russian Federation in 2008 will make it possible to handle up to 56 mln t of additional cargo, Vice PM of the Russian Federation Sergei Ivanov said today when opening the meeting of the governmental committee on transport and communications. In particular, he meant new complexes in Ust-Luga, Vanino and Prigirodnoje.

According to RBC, Vice PM reminded that in the first half of 2008 throughput of Russian ports increased by 2.2%, year-on-year, to 222.6 million tonnes. Ivanov said "it is for the first time throughout several years that the volume of Russian foreign trade cargo handled in the ports of the Baltic states and Ukraine fell by 2.1%".